Halocidin Subunit A Amide/Halocidin Subunit B Amide: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 27, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Halocidin Subunit A Amide/Halocidin Subunit B Amide?

Halocidin Subunit A Amide/Halocidin Subunit B Amide is a lab made version of a natural peptide first discovered in halocidin, an antimicrobial protein found in certain marine animals. Scientists noticed its ability to defend these creatures against harmful microbes and decided to adapt it for skin care. The ingredient is a single 38 amino acid chain formed by two smaller parts (subunit A and subunit B) that are linked together by a sulfur to sulfur bond. At the tail end of the chain the amino group is capped with an amide, a change that helps improve stability and skin compatibility.

Commercial production starts with solid phase peptide synthesis, a step by step process where amino acids are added one at a time in a precise order. After the full chain is built the two subunits are bonded, the amide cap is added and the peptide is purified to remove any by products. The final powder is then blended into cosmetic bases.

You will mainly find Halocidin Subunit A Amide/Halocidin Subunit B Amide in leave on formulas that aim to protect the skin’s surface. Typical examples include soothing face masks, daily moisturizers for sensitive skin, after shave balms and targeted spot treatments that focus on keeping stressed areas clean and comfortable.

Halocidin Subunit A Amide/Halocidin Subunit B Amide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This peptide is prized for one key benefit in skin care.

Skin protecting: It forms a gentle shield on the skin that helps limit the growth of unwanted microbes, supporting the skin’s own barrier and keeping it calm and balanced. Products containing this ingredient can be especially helpful if your skin is easily irritated by environmental factors or frequent mask wearing.

Who Can Use Halocidin Subunit A Amide/Halocidin Subunit B Amide

This peptide is generally well tolerated by all skin types, including dry, oily, combination, sensitive and mature skin, because it is non comedogenic and has a low irritation profile. Exceptionally reactive skin that tends to reject most actives may still find peptides challenging, so extra caution is advised for those individuals.

The ingredient is produced entirely through synthetic chemistry with no animal derivatives, making it suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

No data suggest that Halocidin Subunit A Amide/Halocidin Subunit B Amide poses unique risks during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing women should show any product containing the peptide to their healthcare provider before use.

The molecule does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard daytime sunscreen use is still recommended for overall skin health.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Halocidin Subunit A Amide/Halocidin Subunit B Amide vary from person to person. The points below cover potential reactions, though most users will experience none of these if the product has been properly formulated.

  • Temporary redness or warmth at the application site
  • Mild itching or tingling, especially on very sensitive skin
  • Dryness if used in a formula lacking adequate moisturizers
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with peptide allergies
  • Rare swelling or hives indicating a more significant sensitivity

If any of these reactions occur discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Halocidin Subunit A Amide/Halocidin Subunit B Amide is a water soluble peptide that does not leave an oily residue or block pores, so it earns the lowest possible comedogenic score. Its molecular size is large enough to stay on the skin’s surface rather than settling inside follicles, reducing any chance of clogging.

Because of this it is considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.

No additional comedogenic concerns are known at this time, but overall formula composition still matters since heavy oils or waxes paired with the peptide could raise a product’s pore-clogging potential.

Summary

Halocidin Subunit A Amide/Halocidin Subunit B Amide is a lab crafted version of a marine peptide that focuses on protecting skin. By forming a lightweight surface shield it helps discourage harmful microbes and supports the skin barrier, which in turn can calm irritation and keep the complexion balanced.

You will not see this peptide in every drugstore aisle yet; it remains a niche choice found mostly in forward-thinking brands that formulate for sensitive or stressed skin.

Current research points to a high safety margin with low risk of irritation or pore clogging. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is wise to perform a small patch test when trying any new product that features this ingredient.

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